ROBERTO Di Matteo hopes to bring a new striker to The Hawthorns during the January transfer window.

The Baggies traditionally use the New Year market for topping-up purposes.

But the ongoing injury problems with Peter Odemwingie are causing concern, the Nigerian missed Saturday’s game at Villa with groin and calf problems.

The sale of Leon Barnett and potential departures of Luke Moore or Roman Bednar could generate funds.

Even if Moore and Bednar do not leave permanently, they are expected to be allowed further extended loan spells, which in the latter striker’s case would free up a spot in the 25-man squad that has to be submitted at the beginning of February.

There would also be a saving on their wages if they were to remain on loan.

Albion still have two domestic loans to use up.

I understand the Baggies are looking at strengthening the right-hand side of the defence with Di Matteo admitting that a striker is a priority.

Asked whether Albion needed new blood up front, the Italian said: “That’s a very good idea.

“But it’s easier said than done to find a goalscoring striker.

“The whole Premier League is after one. But, yes, we are absolutely looking at that.”

Commenting on Odemwingie’s problems, Di Matteo continued: “You get a niggling injury in your knee and then from there you get it somewhere else.

“So we need to be careful and manage him properly so we can keep him fit over long periods.”

Odemwingie’s absence left Albion with just two strikers for Saturday’s game – Marc-Antoine Fortuné and Ishmael Miller, who is still not at full fitness following a catalogue of injuries, most recently a torn thigh muscle.

Di Matteo hopes to have Miller back to his best soon.

He added: “He needs to stay fit for a long period so he can get his match fitness and give us a hand in remaining in the Premier League.